May is Haitian Heritage Month, a time to honor the culture and contributions of the Haitian community. One South Florida leader says her story is deeply rooted in that legacy — and she hopes it inspires the next generation to persevere through any obstacle.
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Linda Julien says service is personal. The Miami Gardens councilwoman says her journey is rooted in the sacrifices her parents made after immigrating from Haiti in search of a better life.
“It brings me immense pride being the first Haitian American elected in the City of Miami Gardens,” Julien said. “My parents immigrated here from Haiti in search of a better opportunity, and wanted to give their children a better life.”
Julien says her election represented more than a political milestone; it was a tribute to her family’s struggle and determination.
“For my mother, who ventured here on a raft in the late 70s in search of a better life, it meant for her that her journey was not in vain,” she said. “It meant for her that all of her hard work, determination, sweat and tears, it all paid off.”
She also recalls the challenges her family faced after the loss of her father when she was 12 years old, describing how she helped her mother navigate life in a new country while serving as translator and advocate.
“I would constantly read the paper back then to see if there were any opportunities or resources… to help us with our rent, to help us keep the lights on,” she said. “And I think that’s where the advocacy fueled in me, constantly looking for resources.”
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Julien says those early responsibilities shaped her lifelong commitment to public service and community advocacy.
Today, she says her mission is to “pay it forward,” ensuring others have access to the same opportunities that helped her succeed.
“Keep up the fight, keep up the fight. Don’t give up,” she said. “You cannot give up in the midst of despair.”
During Haitian Heritage Month, Julien also offers a message of encouragement to those facing hardship, urging resilience, confidence, and pride in identity.
“Continue to be positive. Walk with your head up high, your chest out. You articulate, you make sure you know your craft, you do your research, you study, and everything will fall into place,” she said. “You just have to be confident in who you are and what you represent.”
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